Putin: Nord Stream-2 project is not an alternative to Ukrainian transit route
At the press conference following negotiations with Chancellor of Austria Sebastian Kurz, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the Nord Stream-2 gas pipeline project is absolutely, politically unbiased and that it is not an alternative to the Ukrainian gas transit route.
"You know what our position is. We support the implementation of this project, which is entirely politically unbiased. This is absolutely economic, moreover, this project is absolutely commercial," TASS reported the Russian leader as saying. He added, "this is not even an alternative to the Ukrainian route."
"We do not object to further cooperation with Ukraine should it provide economically feasible parameters for the utilization of its gas transport system. Pumping volumes are the only issue," Putin explained.
Commenting on results of the negotiations, the Russian President noted that its parties highlighted specific plans for political, economic and humanitarian sectors. "We have confirmed that the Russia-Austria relations are traditionally based on the principles of equality and mutual respect and that they are mutually beneficial," Putin said.
In speaking of the cooperation in economy, the Russian president expressed hope that representatives of the Austrian business would take part in the upcoming international economic forum in Saint Petersburg.